State Department issues travel alert for Europe

The State Department has issued another travel alert for Americans living in and traveling to Europe for 'the continued threat of terrorist attacks.'

Author:
KVUE Staff

Published:
6:50 AM CDT May 2, 2017

Updated:
6:50 AM CDT May 2, 2017

The State Department has issued another travel alert for Americans living in and traveling to Europe for "the continued threat of terrorist attacks.”

In the travel alert issued Monday, the department said the Islamic State, al-Qaida and their affiliates “have the ability to plan and execute terrorist attacks in Europe.” It added U.S. officials remain concerned about the potential for terrorist attacks following attacks in France, Russia, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

“Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities as viable targets,” the alert said. “In addition, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational institutions, airports, and other soft targets remain priority locations for possible attacks. U.S. citizens should exercise additional vigilance in these and similar locations, in particular during the upcoming summer travel season when large crowds may be common.”

This travel alert will expire Sept. 1. A travel alert was also issued in November 2016 for the holidays, and that alert expired Feb. 20.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

- Check the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate in your destination city for recent security messages;- Review security information from local officials;- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive emergency messages. In case of an emergency, the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate will be able to get in touch with you easier.

The State Department also recommends U.S. citizens

- Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities;- Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions;- Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency;- Have an emergency plan of action ready.